Arbutin is a phenomenal ingredient for people struggling with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. It inhibits tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production - leading to skin brightening. This ingredient has mild antioxidant effects, which help combat oxidative stress and prevent premature skin aging. Arbutin can be plant-derived or synthetic, although the synthetic version is considered to be more effective and is therefore more common in cosmetics. It is regarded as a better alternative to Hydroquinone - having fewer risks of irritation. Arbutin appears as a colorless to faint yellow powder in its raw form and has the chemical formula C12H16O7.
Products with ARBUTIN
With samples available
Liposomal arbutin 10%
by Lipomize
- Sustainable option
- Original documents
Nano Bright™
by Biospectrum
What is ARBUTIN used for?
Arbutin is a widely used dermatological ingredient and is known in the skin care industry for its miraculous properties. Primarily, it reduces melanin production and helps fade dark spots, melasma, sun spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A common ingredient in brightening serums and creams, it evens out the skin tone and promotes a more uniform complexion. It also neutralizes free radicals that are responsible for prematurely aging the skin and causing wrinkles. Arbutin is often found in eye creams for dark circles, melasma treatments, sheet masks, and post-acne scar solutions. It is especially beneficial for Asian and darker skin tones prone to hyperpigmentation.
Origin
Arbutin is naturally sourced from bearberries, pears, cranberries, or blueberries. For the extraction process, the dried plant material is soaked in an alcoholic solvent like ethanol. The resulting extract is filtered and purified.
For synthetic production (which is more common), glucose is enzymatically attached to hydroquinone, which produces the final ingredient. Arbutin produced via this method has greater purity and can be produced on an industrial scale.
What does ARBUTIN do in a formulation?
ANTIOXIDANT|
BLEACHING|
SKIN CONDITIONINGSafety Profile
Arbutin is a gentle and safe ingredient at recommended concentrations of up to 2%. It has a low risk of irritation and is suitable for daily, long-term use. Higher concentrations may cause side effects, especially when used with other strong additives like retinoids and acids. Overall, Arbutin is great for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. However, patch testing must be done prior to full application of products containing this ingredient to check for individual compatibility.
ARBUTIN alternatives
ARBUTIN technical profile
| Property | Values |
Boiling Point | 561.5°C |
Melting Point | 197°C - 201°C |
pH | 5 - 7 |
Solubility | Soluble in water |